26 weeks pregnant

Your baby is the size of a

zucchini

26 Weeks Pregnant: Your Baby’s Development

Practice breaths. This week, your baby's nostrils are starting to open up, which gives him the chance to practice breathing using those newly developed muscles and lungs. There's no air to take in, of course, so instead he "inhales" and "exhales" amniotic fluid.

Sucker punch. Your baby's sucking reflex is so strong that if his hand floats by his face, he might suck on his thumb or fingers. Ultrasounds often show babies in utero sucking their thumbs.

Up for grabs. If you hold out your finger to a newborn, you'll be amazed by the strength of his grip. Your baby is practicing his killer clutch right now. His favorite pull toy is his umbilical cord, but don't worry: The cord can take it!

26 Weeks Pregnant: Your Symptoms

Snack attack. Remember, your baby is eating off your plate, so you need to continue to pay attention to what you eat and how often you eat. You also need to eat right for your own well-being; low blood sugar can make you dizzy, shaky, and tired. Small, frequent meals will help keep your blood sugar even. When you're out and about, carry small, portable snacks like fruit or yogurt so you don't get stuck somewhere without something nutritious to munch on.

Some like it hot. Many women wonder if they should stay away from spicy food when they're pregnant. There is no simple answer to this question. If you like spicy food and tolerate it well, by all means continue to eat it. However, trying food you're not accustomed to can cause an upset stomach, whether you're pregnant or not, so proceed with caution when it comes to adventurous cuisine.

26 Weeks Pregnant: Your Checklist

Pay attention to what you eat and how often you eat

Carry around small, portable snacks like fruit or yogurt

Register for your upcoming delivery at your local hospital or birth center